Henriette’s Story

I’m a mum to two young kids, a wife, an animal lover, a vet, and a lover of travel, outdoor adventures, coffee, wine and good food.

I was born and educated in South Africa, where my love for animals evolved into a career dedicated to caring for them. I undertook Veterinarian studies at the University of Pretoria (2000 – 2005), later securing work as a small animal veterinarian in Cape Town and Pretoria.

Soon after marrying my husband in 2008, we decided to pack up our lives and emigrate to Australia, along with our miniature Schnauzer and two cats. It was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made! We arrived in 2009 and have loved the freedom, people and quality of life here.

Over the last ten years, we’ve moved from Cairns over to Naracoorte and then Mount Gambier, working in various Veterinary clinics along the way. We're now settled into southern Adelaide.

Since arriving in Australia, we've welcomed both our children into our family while loving and farewelling a few pets along the way.

I started Peaceful Paws in late 2020, while still working part-time at a busy vet hospital. The demand for my at-home euthanasia service increased so quickly that within six months I was working full time in my own business!

I love being a home euthanasia vet, helping our pets along their way during their final journey. Yes, it is heart-breaking and sad, but it is never depressing to know that a family loved their pet so much that they put the pet’s comfort above their own need for more time.

I know how hard it is to farewell a pet you adore. My family and I have said goodbye to three of our pets over the last few years.

Each time, we chose to be outside in our favourite spot. We gathered close, giving lots of cuddles and treats while I sedated our pet, who was resting upon my lap. Once our pet was asleep, my husband and very young kids left for a little walk together. When both my pet and I were ready, and at peace, I gave the final injection and said goodbye.

Afterwards, we buried our pets in special spots within our garden. We had a mini ‘funeral’; then, the kids helped to plant a tree in their memory.

This process gave us all peace and closure, and it is a precious moment that I would love to share with any pet owner.

For most of us, our pets are not just ‘animals’. They share our lives more closely than a lot of our families! Despite our failings, they love us unconditionally, and they deserve the most gentle, loving conclusion to their days with us.